While the FY 2013 spending package signed into law (P.L. 113-6) continued funding for most programs in the Labor-HHS-Education appropriations bill at essentially FY 2012 levels, it did not take into account across-the-board cuts from sequestration and other transfers [see Washington Highlights, March 22, 2013].

As a result of sequestration, loss of funding from the Prevention and Public Health Fund (PPHF), and transfers to other programs within the Department of Health and Human Services, Titles VII and VIII programs received $438 million in FY 2013, a $59 million (12 percent) decrease below FY 2012 levels.

The operating plan provides $220.5 million for Title VII health professions programs in FY 2013, a $45.9 million (17.2 percent) decrease below FY 2012 levels, and provides $217.5 million for Title VIII nursing programs, a $13.6 million (5.9 percent) decrease below FY 2012 levels. Individual program levels are detailed in a funding chart prepared by the AAMC-led Health Professions and Nursing Education Coalition (HPNEC).

HPNEC May 29 submitted a letter signed by 58 national organizations, including AAMC, to House and Senate Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations Subcommittee leadership. The letter highlights the role of Titles VII and VIII in preparing the nation’s health care workforce and recommends $520 million for the programs in FY 2014.

Meanwhile, the operating plan provides $251.2 million for the CHGME program, a $14 million (5.3 percent) cut below FY 2012. The National Health Service Corps, which has been funded in recent years through the Affordable Care Act (ACA, P.L. 111-148 and P.L. 111-152) rather than a direct appropriation, is not included in the operating plan but is subject to sequestration.